Loading...
Loading...
Afghanistan is in a state of open war with Pakistan, marked by intense cross-border airstrikes and a declared military conflict, while the Taliban government simultaneously deepens domestic repression and seeks new economic ties with Russia to offset isolation.
February 2026
Week of Feb 23, compared to 12-week average
The economy is paralyzed by border conflict and isolated from Western aid. A key trade route with Pakistan is closed, paralyzing cross-border commerce and causing a potato price slump in Pakistan. The Taliban government is seeking alternative economic partners, announcing intentions to buy oil and gas from Russia and increase direct flights.
The political arena is dominated by international crisis diplomacy over the war with Pakistan. Pakistan's FM Dar is briefing regional allies on its response, while multiple external actors—including the UN chief, Russia, Türkiye, Iran, and Saudi Arabia—are calling for a ceasefire and offering mediation. India has condemned Pakistan's strikes, aligning politically with Kabul.
Security is defined by an escalating open war with Pakistan involving reciprocal airstrikes and cross-border clashes. Pakistan has declared 'open war' and carried out multiple airstrikes on Afghan cities, claiming to have killed dozens of militants. Afghanistan has retaliated with its own large-scale offensive operations, and a Pakistani jet has been shot down with its pilot captured.
Society is under intensified Taliban repression, with new decrees systematically penalizing women more leniently than animals. The UN rights chief states a new penal code deepens repression, exemplified by rules allowing wife-beating and setting tougher penalties for animal fights than domestic violence. An earthquake and rampant conflict misinformation are secondary disruptions.